Happy Friday, Winnipeg!

We’ve got a lot to cover today, so grab a coffee and settle in. From weekend road closures you’ll want to plan around, to a big construction project wrapping up ahead of schedule, there’s plenty happening across the city.

And because we love this community, we’ve also tucked in something special just for you, the readers who show up for every edition. An exclusive deal you won’t find anywhere else, made for Winnipeg Digest readers.

Now, in today’s edition:

• Downtown Road Closures for Basketball Championship Weekend

• Louise Bridge Reopens Weeks Earlier Than Expected

• Winnipeg Extends Outdoor Pool and Spray Pad Season

• Book Market Raises $33K to Support Children in Hospital Care

• 50+ Events this weekend & Live Music!

— Jas Singh

News

Downtown Road Closures for Basketball Championship Weekend

Downtown is about to get a little louder, in the best way. From August 21–25, the Canadian Elite Basketball League is bringing its championship weekend to Winnipeg, and with it comes a street festival, concerts, and of course, some of the best basketball in the country. It’s the kind of weekend where downtown feels alive again.

And the action starts right away: the Sea Bears face the Calgary Surge in the Western Conference Finals today, August 22.

To make space for the fun, a few road closures are going into effect from 9 a.m. Thursday, August 21 until noon on Monday, August 25:

• Hargrave Street – closed from St. Mary to Portage (local parking access allowed)

• Carlton Street – closed from Portage to St. Mary (parking access from both ends)

• Edmonton Street – closed from St. Mary to Portage (parking access from both ends)

• Graham Avenue – fully closed between Edmonton and Donald

If you’re heading downtown, give yourself extra time, whether you’re catching a game or just passing through. And if you want to make the most of the weekend, there’s more than just basketball waiting for you.

Click Here: To learn more about the CEBL Championship Weekend events and concerts.

And if you’re going to be driving this weekend…

Click Here: To see the full list of exact road closures.

Together with Digest Lights!

Winnipeg Digest Discount: lock in your Christmas lights in a 10‑min call (+$150 Off)

Winnipeg, winter sneaks up fast. If you love the “wow” but hate ladders, bins, and burnt‑out bulbs, we’ve got you: Digest Lights just opened a limited batch of Priority Install Passes for Winnipeg Digest readers.

Here’s what you get:

• Free in‑home design consult with photo mockups

• Commercial‑grade, custom‑cut lights installed → maintained → taken down → stored

• Stay‑Lit Guarantee: we fix outages in 48 hours or you get a full refund

• $150 Winnipeg Digest Credit when you book by Oct 7

• Free digital timer + free wreath/garland install + pro dusk photos of your holiday-lit home

• Neighbour Bundle: if two adjacent homes book the same week, each gets an extra $100 credit

• Permanent Trade‑Up Credit: Apply 100% of this season’s spend (up to $1,500) toward permanent lighting if you upgrade by April 31, 2026. So get to enjoy Christmas now, and upgrade later!

Why book now?

• We cap installs at 6 per week, and early weeks go first

• This is our third and one of our last early‑bird pushes before the schedule fills

Quick call, zero hassle:

• Book a 10‑minute phone call to check your address, style, and preferred week

• If it’s a fit, we’ll lock in your FREE Design Consultation on the call (keeping you ahead of the first snowfall)

So if you want a glowing home and zero ladder time this holiday season. Snag a 10‑minute call now and claim your FREE Design Consultation spot before the early weeks and the $150 credit are gone.

Advertise with us by emailing: [email protected]

City Updates

Louise Bridge Reopens Weeks Earlier Than Expected

If you drive through the North End or Elmwood often, you know what a headache the Louise Bridge closure has been these past few months. Well, here’s some good news to make your commute a little smoother: the bridge is reopening this morning, three weeks earlier than planned.

The city had shut it down back in May for inspections and repairs, and while crews found more damage than expected, they managed to pull off the work ahead of schedule.

Here’s what you should know:

• Closed since May 23 for annual inspection and maintenance

• Repairs wrapped up 3 weeks early, reopening today, Aug 22

• Long-term rehab plans are in the works, with a $40M project that could start in 2026

• Meanwhile, work continues on decommissioning the Arlington Bridge with funding already in place

At 114 years old, the Louise is still a lifeline for thousands of Winnipeggers every day, and now it’s back in action.

Click Here: To learn more about the opening and upgrades!

Winnipeg Extends Outdoor Pool and Spray Pad Season

Every summer ends the same way: the days get a little shorter, the nights a little cooler, and families try to squeeze in just a few more swims before fall. This year, the City is giving us a bonus week to hang onto that summer feeling.

Here’s what’s staying open longer:

• Spray pads: Most will run until Sept 7 (Boyd Park & Magnus Eliason wrap up Sept 1)

• Wading pools: Many close Aug 22, but four—including Central Park and Dakota Park—stay open until Sept 1

• Outdoor pools: Kildonan Park, St. Vital, Transcona Aquatic Park, and a few others will be open until Sept 1 (some close Aug 29)

So if you’ve been promising the kids “one more splash” or just want a lazy float before packing away the sunscreen, you’ve got extra time.

Click Here: To see the full list of spray pads, wading pools, and outdoor pools still open!

Community Digest

Flo Rida and Kardinal Offishall are Coming to Winnipeg

If you grew up in the 2000s, chances are Flo Rida’s “Low” was blasting at house parties, in cars, and probably at least one school dance. Now he’s bringing those hits, and a whole lot of energy, back to Winnipeg this fall.

He’ll be taking the stage at Canada Life Centre on October 1, and he’s not coming alone. Canadian hip-hop legend Kardinal Offishall, the man behind “Dangerous,” will be opening the night.

Here’s the breakdown:

• Flo Rida returns to Winnipeg on Oct. 1

• Venue: Canada Life Centre

• Tickets go on sale today through Ticketmaster

It’s one of those shows that feels part throwback, part celebration. Perfect for anyone who still remembers every word to “Apple Bottom Jeans.”

Click Here: To get ticket details and show info!

Book Market Raises $33K to Support Children in Hospital Care

By the time the tables were cleared at St. Vital Centre this past weekend, the pop-up Book Market had done more than sell stories. It had raised over $33,000 in just seven hours. Every dollar goes toward Child Life programming at the Children’s Hospital, helping children and families feel supported during hospital stays.

Here’s what those funds help provide:

• Child Life programming like music therapy, a hospital TV channel, and a special playroom

• A library program that lets kids escape into stories, even during treatment

• Support for families who spend countless hours at the bedside

The sale itself had something for everyone: mysteries, cookbooks, travel guides, puzzles, even records and CDs. Organizers say these smaller sales have been welcomed with open arms, giving people more chances to find new reads while giving back.

If you missed it, don’t worry. The next Book Market pop-up is already set for October 18 at St. Vital Centre.

Click Here: To learn more about the Children’s Hospital Book Market and plan your visit this fall!

Exciting Events: August 22nd - August 24th

Events marked with ($) require a ticket in advance. Please search them up before going.

Sports🏀

• CEBL’s 2025 Championship Weekend/Festival | Aug 22-24 (More Info)

  • Location: Multiple Venues

  • Description: A celebration of culture, music, community and Canadian basketball. The weekend includes the top CEBL teams competing to win the league championship trophy, a concert lineup showcasing exciting musical performers, minor basketball events, and an array of activities designed to engage a cross-section of the local community.

• Winnipeg Goldeyes vs Lincoln Saltdogs | Aug 22-24 ($)

  • Location: Blue Cross Park

• Zumba in the Park | 10-11AM, Aug 23 (FREE)

  • Location: Riley Family Duck Pond

• Winnipeg Run Club | 8AM, Aug 23 (FREE)

  • Location: The Forks, The Canopy

• Manitoba Harness Racing | Aug 23 (FREE)

  • Location: The LOOP

  • Description: Join us at The LOOP at Exhibition Park this summer for heart-pounding action, exhilarating finishes, and unforgettable moments on the track! Whether you’re a seasoned racing fan or a curious newcomer, there’s something for everyone.

• Gonzo Drift Bash | 12PM-5:30PM, Aug 23 (FREE/More Info)

  • Location: Springs Church Drift Pad

  • Description: Gonzo Bash is a full day of non stop action! Featuring Drifting, Car Show and Food Trucks!

• Takbo Tayo “Let’s Run” | 9AM, Aug 24 (FREE)

  • Location: Saintuary

  • Description: Theme - Blue/Red/Yellow

Community Fun🎆

• Movies in the Park: Wild Robot & Wicked | 6:30PM & 8:45PM, Aug 22 (FREE/More Info)

  • Location: Lyric Theatre

  • Description: The Lyric Theatre concession will be serving popcorn, ice cream treats, and other tasty snacks.

• Zoo Nights | 6PM-10PM, Aug 22 (Tickets)

  • Location: Assiniboine Park Zoo

  • Description: Join us for some Friday fun and and grown-up good times at the Zoo! Each themed adults-only evening will include live music, zoo chats, summery sips and snacks, and more.

• Corn Maze | August 22 - Nov 2 (More Info)

  • Location: A Maze In Corn

  • Description: Enjoy the country views while wandering through the corn maze, climb the giant bale pyramid, and visit the petting zoo.

• Summer Line-Up: String Paintings | 11AM-3PM, Aug 22-24 (FREE)

  • Location: Manitoba Children's Museum

  • Description: From 11AM-3PM daily, enjoy special activities that include crafts, games, and so much more.

• Play at The Forks | Daily (FREE)

  • Skateboarding with Pitikwé: August 22-24

    • Location: The Plaza Skatepark

• Baby Bison Walk | 10:30AM & 1:30PM, Aug 23 ($)

  • Location: FortWhyte Alive

  • Description: Feel a connection to the herd as you see the miracle of baby bison.

• Bison Bus Tour | 10:30AM & 1:30PM, Aug 24 ($)

  • Location: FortWhyte Alive

  • Description: See North America’s largest land mammal from just metres away, interacting in their natural habitat.

Markets/Fairs🎡🎢🎠

• Alleyways in the Exchange 2025 | 5PM-10PM, Aug 22 (FREE/More Info)

  • Location: Exchange District

  • Description: Explore curated markets, live performances, and hidden gems in the alleys of the Exchange District. Alleyways in The Exchange takes place on the third Friday of each month, featuring a market, audio performances, an art lounge, and dance performances all against the backdrop of a National Historic Site in Winnipeg’s most walkable urban neighbourhood.

• The Market at FortWhyte Farms | Aug 22 (FREE)

  • Location: FortWhyte Farms

  • Description: Our summer market is the place to buy fresh, naturally grown, in-season produce, and delicious baked goods.

• 2025 Morden Corn & Apple Festival | Aug 22-24 (FREE)

  • Location: Downtown Morden

  • Description: The Morden Corn & Apple Festival originated as a community celebration for Canada’s Centennial in 1967 and has grown into the largest street festival in Manitoba attracting over 80,000 people to enjoy 3 days of activity-packed fun.

• The 25th Annual Picnic in the Park | 1PM-5PM, Aug 23 (FREE)

  • Location: St. John's Park

  • Description: Sákihiwé Festival and the North End Community Renewal Corporation (NECRC) are partnering to host a beautiful music filled day in St. John's Park celebrating the community we share the utmost love for! Come on down to see some of your favourite Indigenous artists, grab some free lunch, browse resource tables, enjoy the bouncy castles, and more! Looking forward to seeing you there!

• St. Norbert Farmers' Market | 8AM-2PM, August 23 (FREE)

  • Location: 3514 Pembina Highway

• Bronx Park Farmers Market | 9AM-2PM, August 23 (FREE)

  • Location: Bronx Park

• 2025 Whyte Ridge CC Summer Carnival
  | 12PM-4PM, Aug 24 (FREE/More Info)

  • Location: Whyte Ridge Community Centre

  • Description: Expect a day packed with activities, BBQ, and music — perfect for kids and families alike! Whether you’re bouncing, splashing, or just enjoying a hotdog while listening to great tunes, there’s something for everyone.

• Manitoba Night Market & Festival | 3PM-11PM, Aug 24 (Tickets)

  • Location: Assiniboia Downs

  • Description: Discover over 100 Manitoba artisans and vendors, indulge in delicious eats from 20+ food trucks, and enjoy a wide variety of live music, a tattoo pop-up, and kids’ entertainment that will keep the whole family smiling.

Performances🎭

• Europa Super Circus | Aug 22-31 (Tickets)

  • Location: Under the Big Top at Assiniboia Downs

  • Description: Performances by world-class artists from all over the globe include high-flying aerialists, tight-wire acrobatics, FMX riders in the Wheel of Death, dizzying roller skaters, comedic clowns, and more!

• Frozen The Broadway Musical | Aug 22-24 (Tickets)

  • Location: Rainbow Stage

  • Description: Adapted from the first Frozen film which was the highest grossing film of the year (2013) and the highest-grossing animated film of all time.

• MAMMA MIA: An Abba Love Story | Aug 23 - Oct 11 (Tickets)

  • Location: Canad Inns Destination Centre Fort Garry

  • Description: Get ready for a summer of love, laughter and ABBA hits, in this light-hearted musical comedy that centers around a mother and daughter opening a boutique hotel on a tiny tropical island. The show explores the complications of love, friendship and second chances, as old passions are awakened and new love is born.

• Jazz in the Leo Mol Sculpture Garden: Marika Galea 
  | 12PM-1PM, Aug 24 (FREE/More Info)

  • Location: Assiniboine Park

Comedy❗

• Shaun Murphy | Aug 22-23 ($)

  • Location: Rumor's Restaurant and Comedy Club

  • Description: Shaun Murphy is a New York City comedian originally from Buffalo whose likability and awkwardness keeps audiences captivated whenever he performs.

• Nick Burden | 8:30PM, Aug 22-23 (Tickets)

  • Location: The Basement Comedy Lounge

  • Description: Nick Burden is an internationally touring headliner hailing from Ottawa, Canada. With his small-town charm and fearless approach to any topic, Nick has become a favorite wherever he performs. His quick wit and unapologetic “tell it like it is” demeanor consistently leave audiences wanting more.

Special Events/Concerts 🥂

• Guided Nature Walks | 11AM, Aug 22 (FREE)

  • Location: Living Prairie Museum

  • Description: Visit the tall grass prairie with a Living Prairie Museum naturalist! Explore the sights, smells, and sounds of the prairie. Get up close with the grasses, flowers, and animals that live here.

• Sunflower Expo | Aug 22 - September 16 ($)

  • Location: A Maze in Corn

  • Description: Explore 8 acres of various sunflower varieties with beautiful photo opportunities along the way!

• Experiencing Eden: Disability and the Natural World | Aug 22-23 (FREE)

  • Location: La Maison des artistes visuels francophones

  • Description: Through this inclusive art exhibit, L'Arche Winnipeg's members invite you into their perspectives as people with disabilities.

Music 🎵

Events marked with ($) require prior ticket purchase. Other events may require the purchase of food.

Thanks for reading The Winnipeg Digest! Let’s chat again on Monday!